Water heaters are an integral part of the home. They provide hot water for bathing, washing clothes, and many other daily uses. The most common type is the electric water heater. It is easy to use and maintain, but it does require venting to release gasses that build up during operation.
This article will focus on how to vent an electric water heater properly so that it can function efficiently and safely. It will discuss how to install a new vent pipe, as well as how to remove the old one if it is leaking or clogged with debris.
What is Venting and Why is it Important?
Venting an electric water heater is important to get rid of the moisture that builds up in the tank.
A vented water heater has a pipe coming out of it that goes through your roof or wall and vents out harmful gasses. Ventless water heaters, on the other hand, have a system inside the tank that releases gasses through its exhaust valve.
Solar water heating systems, or solar hot water heaters, can be used to heat the water in a pool or spa. They are an alternative to traditional power-plumbing systems that use electricity, gas and/or oil.
How to Vent an Electric Water Heater
If you are experiencing problems with your electric water heater, it is important to know how to vent it. You can use a variety of methods with the most common being a cold air return.
The first step is to find the cold air return and open the door. The cold air return should be located in an area that is close to the water heater and has a low ceiling. Next, you will need to attach a flexible pipe (usually included in the purchase) that will run from the top of the water heater to just outside of the house. It should be plumbed so that it doesn’t have any sharp bends or kinks in it.
Hook up the pipe to a drain valve and open it. Walk outside and turn the faucet on at the house, then close off all of the other faucets in your home. Make sure to close off any valves for water lines that are not attached to a sink or toilet, such as those for sprinklers, fire hydrants, etc.,
Turn the faucet off to close the drain valve. The water will now be able to escape the house through the pipe and drain into a storm drain or water main line. The next step is to open up a basement window that is near where you are installing your new system. If you have an exterior window, then it should be fine to use it.
What are the Advantages of Venting an Electric Water Heater?
Venting an electric water heater is a good idea for a number of reasons.
First of all, it will help you save money on your electric bill. Venting the water heater will allow it to heat up more quickly because the air can circulate around the tank. It also helps reduce humidity in your home and prevents mold growth in your humidifier.
Electric water heaters are usually vented outdoors, but when the venting is mishandled or improperly installed, it can lead to a lot of problems. It can cause corrosion and scale buildup in the tank, which will shorten the lifespan of the appliance. It also leads to increased energy use and higher utility bills for homeowners.
The Benefits Outweigh the Disadvantages When it Comes to Venting Your Electric Water Heater
The benefits of venting your electric water heater outweigh the disadvantages. A water heater is a necessary appliance in any household, but it can be dangerous if not properly vented. This is why it is important to know the benefits of venting your electric water heater and how to do so safely.
The benefits of venting your electric water heater include:
- Lower risk for carbon monoxide poisoning –
- Reduced risk for house fires
- Less chance of toxic gasses building up inside the home
- Improved indoor air quality
Contact Emory Plumbing today if you need help with venting your electric water heater. There’s no better plumbing company than Emory. We offer the most versatile HVAC services.